State executives of the apex socio-political youth organisation in Nigeria, the National Council of Nigerian Youth (NYCN) Anambra State chapter, recently paid a courtesy call on Chief Elibe Okonkwo, the latest and youngest monarch East of the Niger and traditional ruler of Alor, Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State.

One of the highlights of the event was the choice of Igwe Elibe as ‘Eze Umu Okorobia Na Ani Igbo’ by the executive of the youth council, who expressed joy and satisfaction that a fellow-youth emerged traditional ruler of a prominent town.

While making the pronouncement, chairman of the council in Anambra State, Comrade Innocent Nduanya said: “We are pleased to have a youth of 42 years old as a monarch in Anambra State, and we have no doubt whatsoever that he will deliver on promise. When young bloods take over leadership positions like this, it encourages some of us in the field of activism to do more.

“General elections are around the corner and we will support and encourage more youths to take up leadership positions, I don’t think it will be bad to have a senator of 35 or a Rep. Let me also state categorically here that the youth council has not endorsed any aspirant as our candidate in the upcoming general elections. Even if we will do so later, I know it will not be these criminals parading themselves as agents of change; some of them have queries to answer in the court of law over embezzlement of public fund and today they want us to standby them for an election. I say it cannot happen.

“Coincidentally, our former chairman, Mr. Nwabufo Nwankwo, hails from this great town, Alor, and he has been of great benefit to Ndi youth Anambra State. The revised edition of the National Youth Policy states that an active youth is one above 18 years and below 35 years of age. Then it allows for youths in the advisory cadre, 35 years - 45 years, which is where you fall into. It is on this basis that we hereby pronounce you as ‘Eze Ndi Youth Na Ani Igbo’ and we enjoin you to lead us with the fear of God and love for mankind.”

The youth body also advised the perpetrators of the lingering insurgency in the North to sheath their sword and repent. Public Relations Officer, Comr. Osita Onuko, said: “Nigeria is one and Nigeria will remain one. Nobody has the right to say we give this region two weeks to leave here or there; threats upon threats cannot unite us. We are aware that some chauvinistic bigots gave two weeks ultimatum to southerners living in the northern region of Nigeria to evacuate or face dire consequences, according to a statement signed by one Mr. Aliyu Usman, leader of Arewa Youth Foundation, during their visit to the Emir of Kano. Such inciting statement is derogatory, especially considering where it was made. Today, we are visiting one of our own monarch, and all we are saying is let there be peace and brotherly kindness in Nigeria.”

While appreciating the youth leaders for the honour done to him, the Alor Monarch pledged to support all programmes of the youth council at all times when he’s being beckoned on to do so. He also expressed satisfaction with the fast pace of development brought about by the fledgling Willie Obiano administration, and encouraged the youth to fall in line with the visions of the present government. He further commended the youth leaders for their sense of responsibility.

“I was very glad while I listened to your introductions. Some of you are already captains of industries; others are working for government and a lot of you are small scale investors. This shows me that the leadership of the youths in Anambra State is in the hands of the right people. Please keep up with the tempo. I am solidly behind you,” Igwe Elibe said.

•Photo shows Igwe Elibe in a group photograph with the Anambra State Executive Council of the NYCN during the visit to his palace.